Stryper frontman Michael Sweet recently addressed criticism directed at his band. He suggested that negative reactions stem from deeper religious opposition in a statement shared on Facebook.
The musician reflected on his musical background and responded to critics who question the band’s abilities.
“I’m just thinking out loud here,” Sweet said. “I grew up in a musical family. Everyone (and I mean everyone) plays an instrument and or sings. Not just okay but very well.”
Sweet detailed his family’s musical heritage. He explained the deep roots of his musical foundation.
“My dad is a great singer/writer. He co-wrote a number one country song back in 1976,” he continued. “My mom is as well. My mom was part of the trio that sang for the traveling ‘Gunsmoke’ (James Arness) show back in the late 50’s. My aunt Reba and my grandmother (Maxine) were the other two who made of that trio. My sister is also an amazing singer!”
The frontman emphasized how music has been central to his upbringing and development as an artist.
“I grew up in studios when I was a kid,” Sweet explained. “My dad (and mom) were always recording. Local and major studios. They were managed by Mike Curb in the 60’s and were in a few ‘Beach/Dune buggy’ movies. Always gigging, always music.”
Sweet then addressed critics directly. He defended his band’s musical credentials and style.
“So, when people say we suck I just laugh lately. Such an ignorant thing to say,” he said. “Music is in our blood. Our DNA. Writing music is in my blood, my DNA. We may not be shredders or flashy players but to be honest, I’m glad we’re not. We do however have our own, unique sound and style.”
The musician offered his perspective on the underlying reasons for criticism against Stryper.
“Some people just love to hate. Hate us. Jealousy, envy? Who knows. Who cares,” Sweet stated. “I’ve come to the conclusion that the hate for this band stems from hatred for God. It’s deep. It’s sad. It’s pathetic. Its shallow. It’s pointless.”
Sweet concluded by reflecting on the band’s achievements and future outlook.
“We have nothing to prove. We’ve broken all boundaries, all rules and all stats. And that just upsets the haters all the more,” he said. “Sometimes we win over the closed minded. Sometimes we don’t. Regardless, we have accomplished more than we could ever imagine. We’re blessed, we’re chosen and we’re thankful. And, we’re not done.”
Sweet’s comments reflect the ongoing challenges faced by Christian metal bands in gaining acceptance within the broader heavy metal community. Steemit reported that Stryper was formed in Orange County, California, initially known as Roxx Regime. The band later became a prominent Christian heavy metal band that helped establish the genre.
The band’s commercial success has been substantial despite facing criticism from both religious and secular audiences. Louder Sound noted that their album “To Hell With the Devil” became a platinum-selling record. It stands as the biggest-selling Christian rock album of all time, demonstrating their significant impact on the music industry.
Stryper’s early career was marked by rapid success in the Christian metal scene. Metal Storm documented that their debut EP “The Yellow and Black Attack” and their first full-length album “Soldiers Under Command” both achieved platinum status. This established them as pioneers in Christian heavy metal.
However, the band also faced significant challenges in international markets. Louder Sound revealed that Stryper’s Christian metal style was not as well-received in regions outside the United States. This contributed to a swift decline in popularity after their peak years in the 1980s.
Despite a hiatus from 1992 to 2003, Stryper has maintained a dedicated fanbase and continues to influence new generations of listeners. Heaven’s Metal Magazine highlighted that the band continues to inspire fans, especially those who grew up with their music as a significant part of their upbringing. This proves their lasting impact on both Christian and metal communities.
